California Divorce, Decoded

California has a mandatory 6-month waiting period from the date the respondent is served. Most uncontested divorces are finalized in 6–9 months. Contested cases can take 12–24 months or longer depending on complexity.

An uncontested divorce means both spouses agree on all major issues — property division, spousal support, child custody, and child support. A contested divorce involves unresolved disagreements that require negotiation, mediation, or a court hearing.

At least one spouse must have lived in California for at least 6 months and in the filing county for at least 3 months before filing. If you recently moved, you may need to wait before filing.

The core forms are the Petition (FL-100), Summons (FL-110), and Declaration Under Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction (FL-105) if children are involved. Additional forms are required for property disclosure, support, and the final judgment. Divorce Decoded handles all 58+ California Judicial Council forms for you.

Yes. Divorce Decoded is a California-licensed law firm founded and managed by attorney Elizabeth A. Du Par. You receive full attorney representation, not just document preparation.

You pay a single flat fee upfront based on your plan tier. There are no hourly billing surprises. The fee covers all attorney work, AI-assisted form preparation, filing coordination, and case management through final judgment.

Grok AI assists with drafting and reviewing California Judicial Council forms, flagging potential issues, and answering procedural questions. All AI output is reviewed and approved by a licensed attorney before anything is filed.

Yes. Divorce Decoded serves all 58 California counties. We handle filing coordination with your local courthouse regardless of where you live in California.

California is a community property state. Assets and debts acquired during the marriage are generally split 50/50. Separate property (owned before marriage or received as a gift/inheritance) typically remains with the original owner.

California courts prioritize the best interests of the child. Custody can be joint or sole, covering both legal custody (decision-making) and physical custody (where the child lives). Parents can agree on a parenting plan or the court will decide.

Spousal support (alimony) is financial support paid by one spouse to the other after separation. The amount and duration depend on factors including the length of the marriage, each spouse's income, and the standard of living during the marriage.

Yes, in certain circumstances. Child custody, child support, and spousal support orders can be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances. Property division orders are generally final once the judgment is entered.